Originally Posted by
Xyzzy
Given I am a total novice, would a (SC4X?) 550 7.5 be the best bet? I only want 3 things: 1) To learn to run some clean laps! 2) To keep temps on the motor and ESC low enough so I don't have to obsess over them, 3) Have enough "grunt" to clear a few obstacles.
My opinion on this is to get the 5.5T
I'm fairly novice myself, and with the 12/62 gearing, the truck was very driveable in stock trim. If you also run an RX8 for your speed control, you can tune the power down some too. Temps will NOT be an issue with that gearing, unless you have bad binding in your drivetrain.
I suggest the 5.5T/RX8 combo so that you can tone it down, but still have the power available as you get better...no need to buy a new motor...
Currently I'm running the 5.5T with 16/62 gearing in 80 degree temps...running hard for 10 minutes and it comes off at 150-160 degrees. If I recall correctly, Randy Pike once said the SC4x motors are comfortable up to 170...at 170 you want to start gearing down, or doing other things to cool the motor....
I run with 80% current limiter, which I think might help with temps, and definately helps keep the truck from getting too squirrly...